Discount for Labor Day Fishing Fun

COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- If you’re looking for something fun and inexpensive for your family to do this holiday weekend, you might consider fishing. Pennsylvania is offering a big discount on a one-day fishing license for Labor Day. They will cost just $1 each.

Families were thrilled to hear the news.

Madalyn Kohler, age 7 smiled, “Once you get the fish, it’s so exciting ‘cause you never know what kind of fish you get.”

Her grandfather Ernie Kohler took her to enjoy a day of fishing at Tobyhanna State Park in Coolbaugh Township Friday.

“She’s got to know how important she is to us and this is one of the ways I show her how important she is to me," Kohler said.

He noted experiences like fishing with his granddaughter are priceless. But not everyone can afford to participate.

If you live in Pennsylvania, a one-day fishing license normally costs about $12 for the day. If you’re visiting from out of state, it’s closer to $27 each.

“That’s a little expensive for a one-day thing,” said Steve Baumley from New Jersey. He was happy to hear about the Labor Day Special.

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With the summer season winding down, The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is excited to offer several special fishing opportunities to keep the fun going! On Labor Day, September 2, resident and non-resident adult anglers (age 16 and older) will be able to purchase a fishing license for $1. The license - good for Labor Day only - provides an easy and affordable way for everyone to enjoy a special day with family and friends while fishing on the Commonwealth's waters. The special license is now available for purchase online at www.GoneFishingPA.com, or by visiting one of more than 700 license issuing agents. A processing and vendor fee ($1.90) will be applied to the purchase of the license. The second opportunity is the Mentored Youth Panfish Day also being held on September 2. This provides youth anglers and their mentors a special opportunity on 20 waterways designated as Panfish Enhancement Lakes. These lakes are specially managed to increase the number and size of panfish, which include Bluegill, Pumpkinseed and Redear Sunfish, which are collectively called sunfish; Black and White Crappies; and Yellow Perch. On this date, youth who have obtained a free mentored youth permit or have purchased a voluntary youth license, and a properly licensed mentor 16 years of age or older may keep fish under the minimum size. All other regulations and daily limits are in effect. The 20 lakes will be open to all anglers all day on September 2, but only mentored youth participants (adults and kids) may keep fish under the minimum size. Learn more here: http://ow.ly/HsFO50vwcR7

A post shared by PA Fish & Boat Commission (@pafishandboat) on Aug 13, 2019 at 5:29am PDT

Dunkelberger’s Sports Outfitters in Stroudsburg expects to sell dozens of the one-day licenses for Monday.

Owner Jere Dunkelberger smiled, “For those who haven’t done it and want a day of fishing, I think it’s a wonderful thing.”

It’s a promotion with a hook that will make it easier for you to reel in some memorable family time.

You can buy the special license at any store that sells regular fishing licenses or online at gonefishingpa.com.